Arkansas HIghway 7

Arkansas Highway 7 is widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the state—and arguably the entire southern United States. Stretching over 290 miles from the Louisiana state line near El Dorado to the shores of Bull Shoals Lake north of Harrison, Highway 7 cuts a dramatic path through Arkansas’s diverse landscapes, including pine forests, rolling farmlands, rugged Ozark cliffs, and the breathtaking Ouachita and Ozark Mountains. This highway isn’t just a transportation route; it’s a journey through the heart of natural Arkansas.

The route begins in the flat piney woods of south Arkansas, traveling north through towns like Smackover and Camden. As it reaches Hot Springs, Highway 7 becomes a designated Arkansas Scenic Byway, offering winding mountain roads, dramatic overlooks, and access to Hot Springs National Park. From here, it snakes through the Ouachita Mountains, climbing into high ridges and remote areas with frequent scenic turnouts. The drive through Jessieville, Hollis, and Perryville is a favorite among motorcyclists and road trippers alike, prized for its curves and elevated vistas.

North of Russellville, Highway 7 enters the Ozark National Forest, providing some of the most iconic mountain scenery in the state. Notable stops include Rotary Ann Overlook, Piney Creeks Wildlife Management Area, and the Buffalo National River area near Jasper. This section is especially popular in autumn, when fall foliage transforms the route into a corridor of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The highway’s ascent through Newton County is steep and winding, rewarding travelers with sweeping views and access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural rock formations.

In the final stretch, Highway 7 passes through Harrison before reaching its end at Bull Shoals Lake. Throughout its length, AR 7 links small towns and recreational areas, serving as a scenic backbone of Arkansas tourism. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking mountain trails, or simply enjoying a long drive with panoramic views, Arkansas Highway 7 delivers an unforgettable experience steeped in the state’s natural beauty and backroad charm.